Organic products have been gaining steam these days. It seems as though more and more people are concerned with the source, quality and purity of foods they eat. Retailers seem to be responding accordingly with more shelf space dedicated towards these items. I have always thought that organic items were probably better for me, but unfortunately the higher prices have always deterred me. So, what does "organic" really mean and are the benefits worth the higher price tag? Here is what I found.
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture,
"Organic meat, poultry, eggs and dairy products come from animals that are given no antibiotics or growth hormones. Organic food is produced without using most conventional pesticides, fertilizers made with synthetic ingredients or sewage sludge, bioengineering or ionizing radiation."
To assure consumers that the organic foods they purchase are produced, processed, and certified to be truly organic, the USDA established the N.O.P. (National Organic Program). This program regulates the standards for any farm, wild crop harvesting, or handling operation that wants to sell an agricultural product as organically produced. Before a product can be labeled "organic," a Government-approved certifier inspects the farm where the food is grown to make sure the farmer is following all the NOP standards. Companies that handle or process organic food before it gets to your local supermarket or restaurant must be certified, as well.
In addition to organic food being grown without artificial additives, it is also a goal of some producers to maintain biological diversity and replenish soil fertility. So through buying organic, you’re not only protecting your own body, but the environment too.
To be fair, even though there are definite benefits to eating organic, I've found some cons as well. The first is of course the price. The price is higher because it costs more to care for organically grown products, and protect them against disease and pests without using chemicals and pesticides. It is also expensive to quickly bring organic items to market without use of preservatives. In addition to cost, organic products are not always completely free of pesticides because the foods can absorb some pesticide from the ground water.
As a consumer it is wise to way your options, while understanding the impacts of a purchase on your pocketbook, health, and the environment. So read those product labels carefully and make the decision that matches your goals.
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